Damage to the eye may not always cause serious damage. Some people scratch their eye, and the scratch heals over time, leaving behind no permanent damage. However, some people have serious eye damage that can result in pain, partial loss of vision or blindness. Knowing some of the causes of eye damage may help prevent some of these potentially harmful situations.
Disease
Eye diseases frequently cause damage to the eye. For example, corneal dystrophies cause the layers of the cornea to cloud over, damaging the cornea and blurring vision, states the National Eye Institute. Other diseases damage the inside of the eye, such as glaucoma. Glaucoma results when high pressures inside the eye cause damage to the optic nerve, says the National Eye Institute. Glaucoma not only damages the eye but vision as well. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects the macula, an area on the retina with the responsibility of maintaining clear, straight-ahead vision. Some eye diseases may cause permanent damage to the eye. Routine eye exams may help diagnose these conditions before they reach a stage where they result in serious damage.
Injury
Some types of eye damage result from injuries, either on the job or at home. Some injuries involve being hit in the eye with an object, which may cause swelling and bleeding inside the eye. Injuries of blunt force may also result in retinal detachments. Other injuries may result in a cut or puncture of the eye itself. Not all injuries appear serious, says The Foundation of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, and "delaying medical attention can cause the damaged areas to worsen." To avoid permanent loss of vision or blindness, the injured person should seek medical attention immediately.
Lifestyle
People exposed to excessive sunlight have a greater risk for developing cataracts and growths on or around the eyes. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, sun exposure may also play a role in damaging the macula. Likewise, smoking may cause an increased risk for developing conditions like AMD. Eating healthy and living an active lifestyle may help maintain good eye health and vision.
